Delphi

190km from Athens

The center of the world

Delphi in legend previously called Pytho, in ancient times was a sacred precinct that served as the seat of Pythia, the major oracle who was consulted about important decisions throughout the ancient classical world.

Available Tours to Delphi

Archaeological site of Delphi

Explore sanctuaries of Apollo and Athena Pronaia, and ancient stadium and theater.

The oracle

The oracle had origins in prehistory and it became international in character and also fostered sentiments of Greek nationality, even though the nation of Greece was centuries away from realization.

Omphalos

The ancient Greeks considered the center of the world to be in Delphi, marked by the stone monument known as the omphalos (navel).

Temple of Apollo

The Temple of Apollo, god of music, harmony, light, healing, and oracles occupied the most important and prominent position in the Delphic Panhellenic Sanctuary. The edifice with the partially restored colonnade visible today dates to the 4th century BC; it is the third temple built at the same place. The famous oracle, the Pythia, operated inside the temple, the location chosen, according to one tradition, due to a sacred chasm beneath the site emitting vapors, which were inhaled by the Pythia. Some ancient writers state that the Pythia then entered a state of delirium and uttering inarticulate cries, which were then turned into equivocal oracles by the priests. This interpretation is controversial, and has been challenged by scholars such as Joseph Fontenrose and Lisa Maurizio, who argue that the ancient sources uniformly represent the Pythia speaking intelligibly, and giving prophecies in her own voice.

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Trip Advisor Reviews

My husband and I were on a full day tour with Panos. He picked us up at the port and gave us a detailed description of what we would be doing that day. My favorite thing about Panos is his ability to make you immediately feel like you’re his best friend in town on holiday. He gives great cultural explanations and I feel like I learned so much more than I did on my previous tour of Athens where I just received a basic historical tour. I really appreciate Panos’ ability to be flexible and adjust the tour when we were feeling tired. As someone who has health issues and never knows quite how they will feel each day, I appreciate his kindness. We would wholeheartedly recommend this tour!

Morgan W

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15/07/2022

We had an excellent Athens and Cape Sounio trip with Vasilis. Vasilis is very accommodating driver and provided us with water, WiFi and phone charge; excellent air conditioned van with a lot of space. He is prompt and was by our hotel at the scheduled time and is very careful driver. Vasilis showed main Athens highlights and recommended nice Greek restaurant for a dinner. We would go with Vasilis again.

Vladimir O

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09/07/2022

Delphi was magnificent! So much more than we thought it would be. The grounds were magical (as expected) and the museum was outstanding. The artifacts all around were definitely something to behold. Words and pictures cannot do them justice. Just to think how these temples and stadiums were built is mind blowing! We are also very grateful that we had Takis as our guide/driver. He was very friendly, helpful and professional, gave us good information and tips, and took us through all the winding city streets of Arachova. Another gem of a town we thoroughly enjoyed!

Donna D

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27/10/2022

Our driver and Greek philosopher, Notis, was a pleasure to spend the day with. He is so knowledgeable about all things Greek. We visited three monasteries in the sky — all had incredible views of the cliffs. You don’t have to be religious to appreciate the contemplativeness of this holy place. Thank you, Notis, for creating a memorable experience!

lorenzo

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11/10/2022

This tour was excellent and George, our guide was very professional, polite and informative. The museum at the ancient city of Corinth was very interesting and the canal was impressive.

FurryCanines

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17/10/2022

It was an amazing day that we will remember! The car was clean and the service was perfect. The driver was pleasant and knowledgeable, he took us to all the historical places in Athens and ancient Corinth and he told us everything we should know about the history that was so interesting. Thanks again for an amazing day!!

Kensey Miller

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11/07/2022

A fantastic day seeing Arachova, Delphi and Galaxidi! Notis was great, very friendly, he kept us well hydrated and gave us plenty of time in each location so we never felt rushed. He also brought us to a delicious lunch spot with a great view. We definitely recommend this tour!

Kaitlin S

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26/07/2022

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